John,

Many congressional staff in Washington, D.C., especially young people starting out, don’t make a living wage. That’s outrageous, and it’s no way to run the U.S. Congress.

Issue One’s new “Fair Pay” report exposes the extent to which congressional staffers are widely and consistently undercompensated for their work, especially in entry-level positions.

One of the report’s most staggering findings? 70% of D.C.-based congressional staff assistants — the most common entry-level position on Capitol Hill — made less than a living wage in 2020. That’s unacceptable — for congressional staff or anyone in our great country.

Tell your representatives that it’s time for Congress to raise its pay floor.

In order for Congress to be more responsive and representative, it must attract and retain a talented and diverse staff. That begins with a living wage.

While there have been recent policy changes made in the House of Representatives aimed at increasing salaries for top House staffers, these changes, according to our analysis, will only affect about 3% of staff. Increases in staff pay need to be made across the board to also support junior-level staff.

The time is now for Congress to pay its staff fairly, which will ensure it can deliver for all Americans.

Congress: It’s time to raise your pay floor!

Thanks for adding your voice,

Michael Beckel
Research Director, Issue One